Lewington leaves Fulham for England post

RAY Lewington has left Fulham to take up a permanent position on Roy Hodgson's backroom staff.

The former Brentford and Watford manager was granted permission to join Hodgson for England's Euro 2012 campaign.

But the Football Association have now reached an agreement with the Whites that enables Lewington to sign a four-year deal with the Three Lions.

The 55-year-old said: "I'm delighted to be joining Roy's England coaching staff permanently. I really enjoyed the experience at the Euros this summer and am looking forward to spending more time with the squad as we look to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.

“I would like to thank everyone at Fulham Football Club for such a wonderful time since I joined as a player in 1980.

"I have been coach, manager and assistant manager during my time here and this is a very special Club full of great people dedicated to taking it forward.

"Being offered a full-time position at Team England alongside Roy Hodgson is a fantastic opportunity for me and one that I simply couldn’t turn down.

"I’m excited at the prospect of being part of a special group of players and backroom staff, who will do their very best to make the nation proud.

"I would like to thank the chairman, Mohamed Al Fayed, in particular for his support on a personal level, and for all he has done for Fulham FC since he purchased the club in 1997.

"The past 15 years have been extraordinary under his stewardship. His vision and commitment, both financially and through his enthusiasm, has been incredible.

"I’m grateful that he has allowed me to take on a position with the England team and I’m honoured to have had him as my chairman.”